Inside Seoul's rapidly growing urban running scene
Park Eun-kyung, a former running club leader, recently joined a group session around Gyeongbok Palace organized by On Your Mark, a specialized running brand. "The Gyeongbok Palace loop is 2.5 kilometers, making it perfect for a 5 km run with two laps, and the flat, beginner-friendly terrain is a huge plus. Being a popular landmark, it's especially beautiful at sunset. It's also great for…
Seoul's urban running scene is experiencing rapid growth, with new enthusiasts embracing the city's diverse landscape. A former running club leader, Park Eun-kyung, recently joined a group session around Gyeongbok Palace organized by On Your Mark, a specialized running brand. The 2.5-kilometer loop around the palace is ideal for a 5 km run, offering flat terrain and beginner-friendly conditions. Visitors often enjoy the stunning sunset views at this popular landmark.
Social media workouts, particularly the "puppy run," have gained viral popularity among younger runners. Participants use GPS tracking apps to map out a dog's silhouette on a digital map, turning the run into an artistic challenge that navigates through Seochon, Samcheong-dong, and Gwanghwamun. The unique experience highlights Seoul's evolving running culture, with more diverse and frequent events popping up.
Park notes the emergence of non-competitive initiatives like "My Pace Morning," where city streets close to traffic between 7 and 9 a.m., allowing people to freely walk, run, or cycle. This trend seems to be gaining traction, signaling a shift towards accessible and inclusive urban running experiences.
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- Inside Seoul's rapidly growing urban running scene koreatimes.co.kr
